Diaries out: Falkirk is getting set to shine this Christmas at lights switch on and more

From Jack Frost to a giant snow globe, mischievous elves and even Mrs Santa Claus, there’s going to be plenty of Christmas cheer in Falkirk district.

There are five whole weeks of festive fun to look forward to, with events and visits from some very special characters to put a smile on little – and not so little – faces.

Falkirk Delivers, in partnership with Falkirk Council, has planned a spectacular 2022 Festive programme for Falkirk town centre and town centres around the district.

And while there’s no formal gathering for the Falkirk Christmas Lights switch on, there’s plenty to get everyone in and around the High Street in the mood for a very happy Christmas.

Diaries ready – there’s lots happening!

It all kicks off in Falkirk from 10am on November 19, when Santa’s Post Office reopens its doors.

Located right next to the Steeple, it’s a hub for a variety of fun, creative and hands on activities for children to enjoy at hour-long workshops.

Booking is required but walk ins will also be welcome – you’ll find details on the Falkirk Delivers website and Facebook page.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Santa, and you’ll find him from 11am on Saturday November 26 at his Howgate festive grotto.

This year he has some special company: Mrs Claus arrives in the town centre on Saturday, November 26 at 10am.

Mrs Claus’ Storytime will take place in her sitting room – upstairs in the newly opened Seagull Trust Bookshop and Art Gallery on the High Street.

Pop in and hear Mrs Claus read a festive story, sing along with the children to some favourite Christmas tunes and then help the little ones choose a free book to take home.

And don’t miss the chance to visit the giant festive snow globe! Hugely popular last year, it’s back from Saturday, December 10 at 11am. Climb inside, kick around the ‘snow’ and don’t forget to take lots of pictures, upload to social media and tag #FestiveFalkirk for lots of ‘likes’!

There’s lots of street entertainment on the Saturdays leading up to Christmas too.

Make a date for Saturday, November 19, between 12.30 and 3.30pm when Jack Frost and the Ice Queen will be walking tall on stilts accompanied by a delightful winter fairy with hula hoops and her crystal ball and a winter wizard with mesmerising juggling skills.

Fans of a certain popular film won’t want to miss events on November 26, when there’ll be a special visit from some spectacular snow fairies, Anna, Elsa and Olaf. Join in the fun from 10am until 3pm.

And on the afternoon of December 3, watch out for some very jolly elves, who’ll be bringing their own special fun and songs to add to the festive cheer.

Fun across the district

There’s lots happening across the district too, with a series of community-led, family fun events and bespoke entertainment at each town centre, including visits from Santa on his sleigh, the giant snow globe and, of course, the switching on of the festive lights displays.

In Bo’ness, the fun starts at 2pm on Saturday, November 26, with a Christmas market, children’s snow rides, entertainment from the Bo’ness Belles, Scotland’s boy band Just the Brave, fun characters and the talented dancers from Lauren Christie Dance School.

In Grangemouth, the festivities on Saturday, November 26, start at 2pm at the bandstand, with entertainment from local community groups Project Theatre and McKechnie School of Dance.

Look out for the face painters and, of course, that snow globe.

Local performer Lauren Kyle will be spreading Christmas cheer, and Scotland’s boy band, Just the Brave, will be there too.

They’ll be back for Denny’s big switch on, which will be held on Saturday, December 3 from 2pm to 4pm.

Joining them will be local winner of The Voice, Craig Eddie, and Lauren Kyle, with upbeat songs to keep the crowd going.

There will also be entertainment from the talented local dance group Julie’s Dancetek and Christmas carols by Denny Baptist Church Choir and Strathcarron Singers.

Local foodbank group ROOTS have organised for some of the favourite characters to pop along, and little ones will love the chance to have their face painted.

Head for Stenhousemuir on Saturday, December 3 between 3pm and 5pm for performances from Craig Eddie, Just the Brave and much-loved Dionne Hickey.

Larbert High Schools Pipe Band will be there as well as Larbert Musical Theatre and Stenhouse School of Dance.

Falkirk Delivers say lots of people are behind ensuring this year’s festive events around the district are packed with fun and good cheer, including BUZZness, Larbert Round Table, Grangemouth Rotary, Falkirk Round Table, KLSB, Roots and lots more.

Look out for more detailed opening hours and booking links on the Falkirk Delivers Facebook page and website.